Fremantle coach Ross Lyon has declared Matthew Pavlich a certain starter for Friday night’s AFL clash with Collingwood at the MCG.

Lyon considered resting Pavlich against the Magpies, but the 34-year-old has been cleared to play despite the six-day break between games.

The Dockers boss on Wednesday dismissed suggestions ruckman Aaron Sandilands (ribs) and defender Michael Johnson (hamstring/knee) wouldn’t play again this season and is confident they will return.